1. (

• lawful

) conformable to or allowed by law; "lawful methods of dissent" ;

2. (

• lawful ,
• rule-governed

) according to custom or rule or natural law ;

3. (

• true ,
• lawful ,
• rightful

) having a legally established claim; "the legitimate heir"; "the true and lawful king" ;

4. (

• lawful ,
• legitimate ,
• licit

) authorized, sanctioned by, or in accordance with law; "a legitimate government" ;